A sculpture of Jim Morrison, the legendary lead singer of The Doors, has been found after nearly 40 years. This bust went missing from his grave in Paris in 1988. According to French police, the bust was discovered during an investigation led by the Financial and Anti-Corruption Brigade.
The Paris Regional Judicial Police announced the recovery on Instagram, calling it an “iconic symbol” for Morrison’s fans. Jeff Jampol, manager of the Jim Morrison Estate, expressed joy over the bust’s return, recognizing its historical significance. He mentioned, “It’s gratifying to see that it’s been recovered,” but noted that the condition of the statue still needs to be assessed.
Morrison, who passed away at just 27 years old in 1971, has a grave in Père Lachaise cemetery, a site that draws music lovers from around the world. On the anniversary of his death, fans gather to pay their respects.
The original bust was crafted by Croatian sculptor Mladen Mikulin and placed on Morrison’s grave for the 10th anniversary of his death. Unfortunately, it vanished in 1988. The headstone was later replaced by Morrison’s parents, with the inscription “True to His Spirit” in Greek.
Morrison’s burial site has been a focal point for fans over the years. During the 20th anniversary of his death in 1991, large crowds gathered, prompting police to use tear gas to manage the situation. By the 30th anniversary, alcohol and music were banned, but thousands still showed up to honor Morrison. As former Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek remarked, “Every day, somewhere in the world, a Doors song is played.”
Despite the challenges surrounding his legacy, Morrison’s influence remains powerful. He was known not just for his music but also for his wild persona and poetic talent. After leaving The Doors, he moved to Paris to concentrate on this passion but tragically died in a bathtub in their apartment later that year. His death, while attributed to heart failure, was somewhat shrouded in mystery, leading to various theories.
The recent discovery of the bust adds another chapter to the ongoing legacy of Jim Morrison. As fans continue to celebrate his life and music, the renewed attention on his grave serves as a reminder of the lasting impact he made on rock and culture.
You can check the Paris tourist site for more details on Morrison’s grave, here.